There’s a special kind of magic that happens when the sun is high, the patio is buzzing with laughter, and glasses are raised in celebration of summer. It’s the season for gathering friends, basking in golden rays, and reaching for drinks that capture the spirit of the moment—elegant, refreshing, and full of character. This year, two iconic Scotch whiskies are emerging as the go-to choices for summer patio sunbathing: Glenmorangie The Original 12 Years Old and Ardbeg 10-Year-Old Islay Scotch Whisky. Each brings its own distinct personality to the table, ensuring every sip is as memorable as the company you keep.
Glenmorangie The Original 12 Years Old is the very definition of approachable sophistication. Crafted in Scotland’s tallest stills—a detail that lends a remarkable purity and delicacy to the spirit—this single malt is aged for twelve years, layering depth and complexity onto its naturally vibrant profile. Pour it neat, over ice, or let it shine in a classic cocktail; however you serve it, Glenmorangie’s signature notes of creamy vanilla and zesty citrus unfold into a symphony of honey and peach. The result is a kaleidoscope of flavour: elegant, floral, and fruity, with a smoothness that welcomes both newcomers and seasoned whisky lovers alike. Recently honoured with a Gold Medal at the 2024 World Whiskies Awards, Glenmorangie The Original 12 Years Old is a testament to timeless quality—an ideal companion for those sunlit afternoons when conversation flows as easily as the whisky itself.
Available at the LCBO for $76.70
For those who crave a bolder experience, Ardbeg 10-Year-Old Islay Scotch Whisky is the ultimate statement. Hailing from the rugged, windswept coast of Islay, Ardbeg is revered as one of the peatiest, smokiest, and most complex single malts in the world. Yet, beneath its powerful smoky profile lies a beautiful balance, where the natural sweetness of the malt emerges to surprise and delight. Non-chill filtered and bottled at 46% ABV, Ardbeg 10 preserves every nuance of its character—from the first burst of smoky fruit and zesty citrus on the nose to the palate’s thrilling interplay of menthol, black pepper, tarry rope, and pine woodlands. Add a splash of water, and the whisky reveals even more: oceanic minerality, fresh citrus, and warm spice, inviting you to explore its depths with every sip. Internationally acclaimed and beloved by whisky enthusiasts, Ardbeg 10 is not just a drink—it’s an adventure, a conversation starter, and the perfect match for those who want their summer gatherings to be unforgettable.
Available at the LCBO for $120.25
So, as you set the scene for another perfect patio afternoon, let Glenmorangie and Ardbeg take centre stage. Whether you’re drawn to the gentle embrace of Glenmorangie’s sun-kissed flavours or the wild, smoky intrigue of Ardbeg, these whiskies promise to elevate every moment under the summer sky. Raise your glass, savour the sunshine, and toast to the season—because with these two classics in hand, summer has never tasted so good.
